How to use the same two monitors with two different Mac minis (without constantly unplugging)?

Hi everyone,


I’m setting up a second Mac mini and I’d like to use the same two external monitors with both machines, without physically unplugging cables each time.


Current setup


Mac mini #1: [model/chip + macOS version]

Mac mini #2: [model/chip + macOS version — e.g., “Mac mini (M4)”]

Displays: 2x [brand/model], resolution/refresh rate (e.g., 4K @ 60 Hz), HDR on/off

Connections on Mac mini #1: [e.g., HDMI for Display 1 + USB-C/Thunderbolt for Display 2]

Connections on Mac mini #2: [same or planned]

Peripherals: [keyboard/mouse model], audio output [monitor speakers / interface / headphones]


Goal


Use both Macs with the same two monitors (and ideally the same keyboard/mouse) and switch between Macs quickly—without re-cabling—while keeping stable resolution/refresh (and HDR if possible).


Something like a KVM switch system.


If you have a known-good wiring diagram (e.g., “Macs → KVM → monitors” with exact ports/cables) or specific product recommendations that have worked reliably with Mac minis, I’d really appreciate it. Also happy to hear about any pitfalls before I buy the wrong KVM/dock.


Thanks a lot!

Posted on Oct 1, 2025 9:28 AM

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Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Oct 1, 2025 9:57 AM

Yes, that is exactly what a KVM system does.


If you plan on wanting Thunderbolt for the display connections it may be hard otherwise find a switch that's not impossibly expensive.


HMDI KVM switches are easier on the wallet.


For example:

click here ➜ UGREEN 8K@60Hz Displayport KVM Switch 2 Monitors 2 Computers - Amazon.com

or here ➜ USB C KVM Docking Station Switch 3 Montors 2 Computers with 100W PD Supply Hybrid Displayport and HDMI KVM Triple 4K60Hz or Dual 4K144Hz Extended Display - Amazon.com


As for diagrams, there's no much to it. Plug in one PC to one input section, plug the other PC to the other input section. Plug keyboard and mouse to the peripherals section on the switch and you're done.



1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Oct 1, 2025 9:57 AM in response to Giorgio1975

Yes, that is exactly what a KVM system does.


If you plan on wanting Thunderbolt for the display connections it may be hard otherwise find a switch that's not impossibly expensive.


HMDI KVM switches are easier on the wallet.


For example:

click here ➜ UGREEN 8K@60Hz Displayport KVM Switch 2 Monitors 2 Computers - Amazon.com

or here ➜ USB C KVM Docking Station Switch 3 Montors 2 Computers with 100W PD Supply Hybrid Displayport and HDMI KVM Triple 4K60Hz or Dual 4K144Hz Extended Display - Amazon.com


As for diagrams, there's no much to it. Plug in one PC to one input section, plug the other PC to the other input section. Plug keyboard and mouse to the peripherals section on the switch and you're done.



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How to use the same two monitors with two different Mac minis (without constantly unplugging)?

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